Sensei Wu - Black Kimono
njo013 · Ninjago
Ninjago: Masters of Spinjitzu - Pilot Episodes / Rise of the Snakes · 2011 (Released in the Garmatron and Spinjitzu Dojo sets)
Figure ID
njo013
Theme
Ninjago
Year Released
2011 (Released in the Garmatron and Spinjitzu Dojo sets)
Rarity
Uncommon. While widely produced during the launch of Ninjago, this specific black outfit version is limited to only a few early sets compared to his more common white robes.
Head
Yellow head with bushy white eyebrows, white beard, and small black eyes. The head features a double-sided print showing a calm expression and a more focused/serious battle expression.
Torso
Black torso with a printed dark bluish gray sash, metallic gold and grey Asian-inspired patterns. White arms and yellow hands to represent the sleeves and skin of the character.
Legs
Black legs with printing on the left leg continuing the sash detail and metallic gold character symbols/accents. Standard articulated leg type.
Accessories
Usually includes a conical tan 'Coolie' straw hat (missing in image) and a white beard piece (present). He often carries a brown LEGO staff piece as his primary weapon.
Color Scheme
The primary colors are Black and White, with Yellow skin and metallic Gold accents. This represents a more formal or combat-oriented version of the character.
Printing Details
High-quality pad printing typical of the early 2010s. The gold printing is slightly reflective. Printing is located on the head (dual), torso (front and back), and the front of one leg.
Variants
There are over 30 variants of Wu. This specific one (njo013) is distinguished by the black robes. Other common versions include White Robes (njo026), Kimono (njo072), and Battle Armor (njo139).
Condition Notes
Common wear points include the white beard piece, which can yellow or lose its 'clutch' on the neck stud. The white arms are also prone to yellowing if exposed to sunlight.
Estimated Value
Current market value is approximately $5.00 - $8.00 USD for used complete, and $10.00 - $15.00 USD for new/mint condition. The value is relatively stable.
Price (New)
This figure appeared in sets ranging from $14.99 (Spinners) to $49.99 (2504 Spinjitzu Dojo).
Compatible Sets
2504 Spinjitzu Dojo (2011), 2255 Sensei Wu (2011), and 2507 Fire Temple (2011).
Character Background
Sensei Wu (or Master Wu) is the wise mentor of the original six Ninja. The son of the First Spinjitzu Master and brother to the villainous Lord Garmadon, he is a central figure in the LEGO Ninjago lore.
Design Notes
This version uses a custom beard mold that has become iconic for the character. The black robes were designed to give him a more authoritative look for the training sets.
Similar Minifigures
Master Wu (White Robes), Garmadon (Sensei version), and the Legacy variations of these original 2011 figures.
Collectibility
High for Ninjago completionists. As an 'OG' figure from the first wave of Ninjago, it holds nostalgic value for collectors who started with the pilot series.
History
Released at the peak of LEGO's transition into original story-based themes. This figure helped launch Ninjago, which became one of LEGO's most successful internal IPs.
Interesting Facts
The metallic gold symbols on his leg are part of a fictional Ninjago alphabet (Ninjargon) that fans can actually decode.
Display Suggestions
Best displayed with the original four Ninja (Kai, Jay, Cole, Zane) in their 2011 pilot suits. It should be kept in a UV-protected case to prevent the white arms and beard from yellowing.
Modification Potential
The black torso is highly sought after for customizing other martial arts characters or 'Ronin' style MOCs. The beard piece is also commonly used for Gandalf or Dumbledore customs.
Overall Assessment
The figure in the image is missing its iconic hat but is an authentic njo013 Sensei Wu. It is a solid 7/10 for collectors due to its status as a foundational Ninjago figure.